Federal Judge Roanne Mann and a three judge panel will be drawing Congressional districts after the two houses of the Legislature declared impasse in coming up with maps for the State's 27 districts.
Judge Mann will consider plans from both houses as well as citizen groups. She will issue her decision March 12, just a week before candidates have to begin circulating nominating petitions. I am not sure if the Legislature can suddenly agree on something...My suspicion is no. (Where's Liz when you need her ?)
Members of the political class and media wags will all have an opinion. I like the notion of communities of interest, but that's tougher to do in sparsely populated NNY. My opinion doesn't matter and I don't know what criteria the judge will use.
I could say I want the district most likely to elect my candidate....just as MCM could say he wants the district most likely to elect his candidate. Or we could take a principled stance and say we want what is most logical for the people.....Oh, there will be none of that.
All I know is all the plans I have seen have both Bill Owens and Matt Doheny living in them, so for me on my perch in Jefferson County USA, that will be the most likely choice. Whether I have to share a Member of Congress with Utica or Speculator doesn't matter much to me, but is sure does to those two candidates, although I am told either way it's race on.
Capitol Confidential » Congressional plans differ in Capital Region treatment
2 comments:
What role must Government play in our lives?
As little as possible you say, while others say I just want them to be there, to provide a safety net for all Americans when needed in times of emergencies. The size of new district will likely include a larger Democratic population with the acquisition of Utica, to Diatrict NY 23. And that will only help Rep. Bill Owens bid for re-election, the key decider in this election will be, "What candidate better understands the role that 'Government,' needs to play in running America today. How will that benefit all our District’s citizens? Mr. Doheny will need to prove he speaks for NY 23 voters and not 'Wall Street,' where what he has made his reputation to date. Matt is all about being financially made by 35 and not about the Middle Class and the struggles they face to make a life for themselves and their children in today’s economy. So lets stop dictating morality to woman and start telling voters how you’ll help govern NY 23 so all our lives are improved in the future.
Mike Flynn ‘Middle Class Mike
Spin it anyway one wants, but the final decision about congressional districts should have be left to a judge or panel of judges -- of course, it does give those already in office cover and a place to place the blame for any fallout except at their doorsteps... why are we shocked at that spin?
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